Part exam, part interview
Hair changes can be linked to things going on elsewhere in the body, so a scalp assessment is part examination and part interview. A provider will look at your scalp and hair pattern. They will also want to hear about recent stress, a recent illness or surgery, a pregnancy or birth in the past year, changes to how you eat, new medicines, and whether parents or siblings had similar thinning.
From there, they might suggest blood work or refer you to a dermatologist. Some people leave with a clear next step, others with a few things to follow up. Both are normal outcomes of a first visit.
Questions worth bringing
It helps to arrive with a few questions written down. People often find these useful:
- What are you looking for when you examine my scalp?
- Could anything in my history, medicines or recent health be linked to this?
- Do you suggest any blood tests, and what would they look for?
- Is this something a dermatologist should see?
- What is your license, and how much of your work involves hair and scalp concerns?
- What does a follow-up look like, and what does it cost?
There are more ideas on the questions to ask page.
What to bring
A little preparation gives the provider more to work with. Consider bringing:
- A list of every medicine and supplement you take, with doses
- Rough dates of any recent illness, surgery, fever or childbirth
- Copies of recent blood work, if you have them
- A few photos of your hair from the past year or two
- The names of the shampoo, styling and scalp products you use
- Notes on any family history of thinning
- Your questions, written down
You do not need all of it. Bring what you have.
Questions about scalp assessment
What happens at a scalp assessment?
A provider looks at your scalp and the pattern of your hair, then asks about your health history, medicines, recent stress or illness, childbirth, diet and family pattern. They may suggest blood tests or refer you to a dermatologist. A licensed provider decides what is suitable for you.
Should I see a dermatologist instead?
If your hair loss is sudden or patchy, or your scalp is painful, bleeding, crusting or shows signs of infection, see a doctor or dermatologist. For other concerns, a provider at an assessment may also refer you to one if they think it would help.
How much does a scalp assessment cost?
Cost is set by the provider, and this site does not list prices. When a provider contacts you about your request, ask what the visit costs, what it includes, and whether tests or follow-ups are billed separately. Sending a request does not commit you to anything.
Have a question about your hair or scalp? Send a short consultation request to a provider near Los Angeles.
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